2 They called to them, so they went from them.They sacrificed to the Baals,and burnt incense to engraved images.
3 Yet I taught Ephraim to walk.I took them by his arms;but they didn’t know that I healed them.
4 I drew them with cords of a man, with ties of love;and I was to them like those who lift up the yoke on their necks;and I bent down to him and I fed him.
5 “They won’t return into the land of Egypt;but the Assyrian will be their king,because they refused to repent.
6 The sword will fall on their cities,and will destroy the bars of their gates,and will put an end to their plans.
7 My people are determined to turn from me.Though they call to the Most High,he certainly won’t exalt them.
8 “How can I give you up, Ephraim?How can I hand you over, Israel?How can I make you like Admah?How can I make you like Zeboiim?My heart is turned within me,my compassion is aroused.